HIGHLIGHTS: Congaree National Park is the largest preserve of old-growth floodplain forest in the United States. Located along the Congaree River near Columbia, South Carolina, the park was designated an International Biosphere Reserve in 1983 and it has some of the largest trees that can be seen in the Eastern United States. Along the Congaree River, the trail conditions vary with the weather. After severe rains, the trails flood and occasionally become impassible. The ranger station typically has up-to-date information, so make sure to check with them before you head out on any of the twenty miles of trail in the park. Also, keep in mind that there are two miles of elevated boardwalks that do not permit dogs.

The Oakridge and Kingsnake Trails combined for a roundtrip loop hike. However, the Kingsnake Trail can be done as an in-out, backtrack hike if you are looking for a shorter route which cuts the mileage to 7.4-miles total. Regardless, this hike starts at the parking area for the Kingsnake Trail off SC 1288 where the trail heads south through a mix of heavy forest and marsh and follows orange blazes. The Feral Hog has done well in this rustic habitat, so don’t be surprised to see one tearing at the ground with their tusks as you wander through the wilderness. These untamed animals (also known as wild pigs) have existed in the U.S. since the 1500’s when they were introduced in Florida. While many National Parks have undertaken programs to control their numbers, some are still present in this area. If the pooch catches their scent, hold the leash tight. These Feral Hogs can tear your hound apart with their strong tusks, and the damage they cause to the forest as they root for insects has made them a nuisance to many forest professionals.